How much does a Line Cook make in Santa Cruz, CA?
In Santa Cruz, CA, a Line Cook earns an average yearly salary of $43,096. This role involves working in a kitchen to prepare meals, assist in cooking, and manage food stations. Many Line Cooks find their work fulfilling because they play a direct role in creating delicious food for customers.
Here is a breakdown of the salary distribution for Line Cooks in Santa Cruz, CA:
- 8.44% of Line Cooks earn between $35,500 and $37,262.
- 2.11% earn between $37,262 and $39,024.
- 14.78% earn between $39,024 and $40,785.
- 19.00% earn between $40,785 and $42,547.
- 10.56% earn between $42,547 and $44,309.
- 29.56% earn between $44,309 and $46,071.
- 4.22% earn between $46,071 and $47,833.
- 0.00% earn between $47,833 and $49,595.
- 2.11% earn between $49,595 and $51,356.
- 0.00% earn between $51,356 and $53,118.
- 4.22% earn more than $53,118.
These figures can help job seekers understand the range of earnings they might expect in this profession. It also shows how experience, skills, and dedication can affect a Line Cook’s salary.
What are the highest paying cities for a Line Cook near Santa Cruz, CA?

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Los Gatos, CA
Average Salary: $50,627
In Los Gatos, chefs often work in trendy eateries that focus on fresh, local ingredients. The culinary scene here values creativity and teamwork. Popular restaurants often provide opportunities to work with experienced chefs.
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Watsonville, CA
Average Salary: $46,900
Working as a cook in Watsonville means being part of a community that values fresh, local produce. The area has many family-owned restaurants where teamwork and efficiency are key. Local farms often supply the ingredients used in dishes.
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Palo Alto, CA
Average Salary: $45,248
In Palo Alto, cooks can find jobs in upscale restaurants that emphasize both taste and presentation. The tech-savvy environment offers unique dining experiences. Working here can mean learning from some of the most skilled chefs in the region.
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Scotts Valley, CA
Average Salary: $45,091
Scotts Valley offers a slower pace for cooks who value quality over quantity. Smaller, family-run restaurants are common. The focus here is on creating a welcoming atmosphere while making delicious, hearty meals.
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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $44,080
San Jose has a diverse dining scene, with many restaurants offering a range of cuisines. Cooks here often enjoy working in busy environments with a fast-paced rhythm. Opportunities for career advancement are available in larger establishments.
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Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA
Average Salary: $42,917
In Carmel-by-the-Sea, cooks often work in charming, picturesque restaurants. The town's focus on fresh seafood and local ingredients provides a unique culinary experience. The serene environment makes for a pleasant work setting.
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Big Sur, CA
Average Salary: $42,452
Big Sur's culinary scene features unique and rustic dining experiences. Cooks here often work in lodges and cafes with stunning views. The emphasis is on creating comforting, hearty meals for visitors and locals alike.
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Saratoga, CA
Average Salary: $42,000
Saratoga offers a blend of traditional and modern dining experiences. Cooks can find jobs in both cozy cafes and more formal restaurants. The town’s growing popularity brings new opportunities for culinary professionals.
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Monterey, CA
Average Salary: $41,857
Monterey has a vibrant food scene, with an emphasis on seafood and local produce. Cooks here work in a variety of settings, from waterfront restaurants to charming bistros. The area’s rich culinary history provides a unique backdrop for any cook.
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Hollister, CA
Average Salary: $41,733
Hollister’s dining scene is a mix of casual and fine dining. Cooks often work in family-friendly restaurants that value quality and service. The agricultural setting means fresh ingredients are always at hand.
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What are the best paying companies for a Line Cook in Santa Cruz, CA?

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VIM
Average Salary: $44,167
VIM is a well-known restaurant in Santa Cruz, CA. Line cooks at VIM work in a fast-paced environment, preparing a variety of dishes. The restaurant is located in downtown Santa Cruz and serves both lunch and dinner.
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Verve Coffee Roasters
Average Salary: $37,245
Verve Coffee Roasters offers a unique job opportunity for line cooks. This company operates multiple cafes across Santa Cruz, CA, with the main location on Pacific Avenue. Line cooks here not only prepare food but also learn about coffee roasting and brewing.
What are the best paying Line Cook related jobs in Santa Cruz, CA?

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Sous Chef
Average Salary: $67,112
A Sous Chef oversees kitchen operations. They help manage the kitchen staff, take direction from the head chef, and ensure food quality. Many restaurants in Santa Cruz seek talented Sous Chefs to keep their kitchens running smoothly.
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Restaurant Manager
Average Salary: $56,459
A Restaurant Manager coordinates the entire dining experience. They handle staff scheduling, customer service, and inventory. In Santa Cruz, managers play a key role in creating a welcoming atmosphere and ensuring smooth operations.
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Sandwich Artist
Average Salary: $41,167
A Sandwich Artist creates delicious sandwiches. They prepare ingredients and assemble sandwiches to customer specifications. This role suits those who enjoy food preparation and customer interaction in Santa Cruz’s vibrant food scene.
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Baker
Average Salary: $41,062
A Baker specializes in making bread, pastries, and desserts. They follow recipes and maintain a clean workspace. Many bakeries in Santa Cruz hire bakers who can produce high-quality baked goods consistently.
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Cook, Cashier, Food Prep
Average Salary: $41,000
A Cook, Cashier, Food Prep role combines kitchen work with front-of-house duties. Cooks prepare food, cashiers handle transactions, and food prep staff get items ready for service. This position requires versatility and efficiency, ideal for Santa Cruz eateries.
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Dishwasher
Average Salary: $37,671
A Dishwasher cleans dishes, utensils, and kitchen equipment. They ensure a clean and safe environment. Many restaurants in Santa Cruz rely on detail-oriented dishwashers to support their kitchen teams.
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Dietary Cook
Average Salary: $37,000
A Dietary Cook prepares meals for specific dietary needs. They follow nutritional guidelines and recipes. Hospitals, schools, and care facilities in Santa Cruz often hire dietary cooks to ensure meals meet health standards.
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